Physical Therapy vs. Chiropractic Care

The information below is used to highlight the differences and similarities in the Physical Therapist and Chiropractic professions.  There are advantages and flaws to each profession.  Remember to keep in mind that there are great chiropractors and physical therapist as well as bad ones – research the practitioner and make an appointment for a consultation.  After doing so, you will know whether chiropractic treatment or physical therapy sessions are a fit for you.  Keep in mind, whether going to a physical therapist or chiropractor, choose one that stays up to date on the current trends and treatment.    

Physical Therapy

Both physical therapists and chiropractors receive approximately the same amount of schooling, but the difference is the focus of the education.  Physical therapists (PT) are trained in rehabilitation, post op orthopedic rehabilitation, and stroke rehabilitation, whereas chiropractors have efficient training in diagnosis and radiology.  PT’s do manipulate backs, but it’s usually an added treatment, not the sole focus of treatment.  PT does not come with the negative reputation like chiropractics does.  When searching for a PT, research the practitioner’s specializations and choose the one that relates to the condition you have.    

Chiropractic Care

Unlike physical therapists, manipulation is the key focus for the chiropractic profession. A visit to the chiropractor can help restore energy flow to the body and realign the spine to eliminate back pain.  It’s important to understand that chiropractors fix subluxations and vertebra misalignment, but they don’t cure illnesses.  Once chiropractors fix the subluxation, the energy flow begins to increase which helps eliminate toxins and sickness in the body. Chiropractic treatments are typically efficient for acute and some chronic nueromusculoskeletal problems.  Despite all these positive facts about chiropractics, there are several negatives.  Practitioners believe all their patients are subject for manipulation including children and people with osteoporosis or weak bones.  Also, many chiropractors believe that subluxations are the main causes to disease and need to be fixed in order for the patient to feel better.  PT’s think that a subluxation diagnoses is false, and it is a tool to get patients to come back for more treatments.  Some chiropractors will sell herbal remedies or offer services they are not qualified to do.  Take precautions with practitioners who want to sell you remedies from the office.  Overall, chiropractic care is safe for most people and many can benefit from the doctor’s services.  Both PT and chiropractic treatment are non-invasive treatments that will improve existing conditions.